Nymphs, creatures from classical mythology, were often objects of great sexual desire, spirits with complete sexual freedom. The term nymphomania was inspired by the sexual behaviour of nymphs.

Thought to inhabit natural features such as springs and trees, they were free of the restrictions of chastity and were known for their playful dancing and singing. Perhaps thanks to their natural environment, nymphs came to be associated with lax morality.

By contrast, the ‘Madonna,’ also known as the Virgin Mary or the Virgin Mother, is the epitome of purity and the embodiment of a flawless female. Christian belief asserts that the Madonna was so sinless that she was the only human to ascend directly to Heaven.